The Green IT Review

Friday, 12 November 2010

Xerox has launched a new return and recycling program in the US in partnership with Australian company Close the Loop, which recycles imaging supplies around the world.

Customers can place used supplies into a collection box, print a free shipping label and send the box to Close the Loop. The return instructions are printed on the boxes which can be ordered through the recycling website, http://www.xerox.com/gwa. The site also includes instructions and other information to help with the choosing and using of a returns process.

Close the Loop will manage the recycling on behalf of Xerox, using a process that recovers used materials for reuse in new printer cartridges and other products.

This service is an extension of Xerox’s Green World Alliance program, launched in 1999. "During the past 12 years, our collaboration with customers has kept more than 143 million pounds of cartridges, bottles, and waste toner out of landfills,” said Patricia Calkins, vice president, Sustainability, Environment, Health & Safety. “As we continue to make it easier for customers to participate in our remanufacturing, reuse and recycling efforts, we get closer and closer to our ultimate goal of zero waste.”

Apparently this US service is “Similar to Xerox’s popular Eco Box program in Europe”. I searched for more details but drew a blank. It would be interesting to know how successful the European service has been to draw comparisons with what happens in the US.